Learn more about Parkinson's Disease

What is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a complex, multi-symptom, debilitating, degenerative neurological disorder that requires special care for an individual with the illness, as well as an ongoing knowledge of the disease process. The daily struggle of living with PD involves difficulty moving, as well as other functional activities such as communicating, swallowing and digestion. Ability to move depends on a delicate balance of timing, and combination and dosage of medications. Some of the medications carry serious side effects and need to be monitored closely. Balance is another area that is negatively affected by the disease, resulting in the increased risk of falls. The above are only a sample of the many reasons that caretakers of Parkinson's Disease should have specific instruction to optimize the quality of life for people with PD.

Demographics of Parkinson's Disease:
More than 1.5 million people have been diagnosed with PD. The average onset is age 60, with 5–10% of people diagnosed before age 40. Men and women are equally affected, and there are no ethnic or geographic boundaries.

Causes of Parkinson's Disease:
A definitive cause of PD is unknown. The prevailing theory is that the combination of long-term, low-level exposure to an environmental toxin combined with a genetic vulnerability causes neuron death. Diagnosis is based on clinical judgment, with no definitive test. Currently, there is no known cure. Treatments focus on relieving symptoms.

Surgeries Available:
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and Pallidotomy

Web sites:
Kansas University Medical Center - Parkinson Disease and Movement Disorder Center
National Parkinson Foundation
American Parkinson Disease Association
The Parkinson Alliance

Wellness Strategies:
Exercise, speech therapy, relaxation, vitamin supplements

Cardinal Symptoms:
Tremor at rest
Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
Muscle rigidity
Impaired balance
Secondary symptoms
Freezing
Speech problems
Sleep disorders
Constipation
Depression/Anxiety
Parkinson Mask-lack of facial expression due to rigid facial muscles
Hallucinations and psychosis
Excessive salivation

Cognitive and Emotional Changes:
Dementia occurs in 30% of PD patients, usually in the later stages. Most people with PD maintain a high level of cognitive functioning. Depression and anxiety are both elevated in people with PD. Anxiety and stress exacerbate PD symptoms, especially tremor.

Keys to treating patients with Parkinson's Disease:
Fall prevention
Timing of medication
Plenty of water
Parkinson Disease meds cause dry mouth, constipation, urinary tract disease
Fiber
Problems swallowing
Low blood pressure
Freezing
Maintaining physical abilities through movement
Social isolation